Despite recent rain, reminder to conserve water

Months of reduced rainfall and hot temperatures have landed the Keowee-Toxaway River Basin into Stage 1 drought. The basin is part of the larger Savannah River Basin.  The decision announced today came from the Keowee-Toxaway Drought Management Advisory Group.  Stage 1 is the second of five drought stages outlined in the Keowee-Toxaway Low Water Inflow Protocol.  Voluntary conservation is recommended by water users across the basin.  Those on lakes Keowee and Jocassee who withdraw water for irrigation purposes are to voluntarily limit their water withdrawals to two days a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays.  Other large users in the basin, as a goal, will adjust their practices to limit withdrawals.  “We support a collaborative approach to ensure the availability of our regions’ water resources,” said Bob Faires, Seneca Light and Water.  “We will continue educating our customers on using water wisely and promoting smart conservation practices.”